On the second Sunday of Advent, we light the Bethlehem Candle, also called the Candle of Peace. This candle invites us to reflect on the extraordinary way God brought His promised Savior into the world—through the most unexpected and humble circumstances.
Bethlehem: The Place of Promise
The ancient prophet Micah foretold that the Messiah would come from Bethlehem, a small, seemingly insignificant town:
“But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.”
(Micah 5:2 ESV)
Centuries later, God arranged history so Mary and Joseph would journey to Bethlehem. As Luke narrates:
“And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.”
(Luke 2:4-7 ESV)
A Humble Arrival for the King
The King God promised did not arrive with royal fanfare or grand celebration. Jesus, the Son of God, was born in a stable and placed in a manger. The world expected a Messiah who would come in power, but God chose humility and simplicity. In Bethlehem, the Prince of Peace entered our broken world in the most approachable way.
Peace: More Than the Absence of Trouble
The peace Jesus brings is not just a quiet night or the absence of conflict. It is the restoration of our relationship with God. Through Jesus’ birth, life, and sacrifice, we are offered true peace—peace that reaches into our hearts and overcomes fear, shame, and striving.
As the prophet Isaiah wrote:
“And his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
(Isaiah 9:6 ESV)
Reflection:
- Where do you need God’s peace in your life today?
- How does the humility of Jesus’ birth shape your understanding of God’s love and approachability?
As you light the Bethlehem Candle this week, let its glow remind you: God’s peace comes in unexpected ways and places. Through Jesus, born in Bethlehem, we are invited into a new relationship with God—one marked by true and lasting peace.
